Assistant Estimator

Samuel James Recruitment Ltd; London; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A noted conservation contractor is seeking an Assistant Estimator for projects involving historic buildings in London. Candidates will assist in tender preparation, site visits, and liaising with teams, while gaining hands-on experience in heritage construction. This role offers mentorship and a chance to contribute to significant restoration efforts across the UK.

Benefits

28 days holiday including bank holidays

Enhanced pension and yearly bonus

Opportunities for progression

Support with further training and qualifications

Qualifications

• Experience in an Assistant Estimator or Trainee Estimator role, ideally in construction.
• Strong interest in heritage and listed buildings.
• Degree-qualified or working towards a relevant qualification.

Responsibilities

• Assisting in the preparation of tender documents for restoration projects.
• Reading and interpreting drawings and specifications.
• Requesting subcontractor quotes for heritage materials.

Skills

Numeracy

Organization

IT Skills

Passion for Heritage

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying or Construction Management

Job description

Assistant Estimator Heritage Restoration & Conservation - Up to £45,000 + Benefits - London-Based Projects

Are you looking for an Assistant Estimator role and have a keen interest in historic buildings and traditional construction? This is an excellent opportunity to join a market-leading heritage and conservation contractor, supporting the tendering of prestigious restoration projects across London and the South East.

If you're detail-oriented, passionate about architecture, and eager to grow your estimating career in a unique and rewarding sector, this role offers hands-on experience with iconic listed buildings and expert mentorship in a highly respected team.

What You'll Be Doing (The Role)

• Assisting in the preparation of tender documents for restoration and conservation projects
• Reading and interpreting drawings, specifications, and site reports to support cost planning
• Requesting and analysing subcontractor and supplier quotes for heritage-specific materials and trades
• Helping to build Bills of Quantities and cost breakdowns under senior guidance
• Supporting site visits, surveys, and liaising with internal delivery and pre-construction teams
• Learning traditional construction methods and conservation best practices

About You

• Experience in an Assistant Estimator or Trainee Estimator role, ideally in construction or specialist subcontracting
• Candidates from tools such as Stone Masons or Restorers are also encouraged to apply
• Strong interest in heritage, listed buildings, or traditional materials like stone, lime, timber, and lead
• Good numeracy, organisation, and IT skills (Excel and take-off software knowledge beneficial)
• Proactive and eager to learn from experienced professionals in a collaborative setting
• Degree-qualified or working towards a qualification in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or similar
• Passionate about architecture, heritage, and working on meaningful, legacy projects

About the Company

This long-established conservation contractor is recognized nationally for its work preserving and restoring some of the UK's most significant historic buildings. From cathedrals and civic landmarks to palaces and public heritage sites, they combine traditional craftsmanship with modern construction expertise. With in-house teams covering stone masonry, joinery, plasterwork, roofing, and façades, they deliver a full-service approach to heritage renewal. Known for investing in people and apprenticeships, they provide a supportive environment for new talent to grow in the conservation field.

What’s In It For You?

• Salary up to £45,000 depending on experience
• 28 days holiday including bank holidays (rising +1 day per year)
• Enhanced pension and yearly bonus
• Opportunities for progression into Estimator or Quantity Surveyor roles
• Support with further training, qualifications, and CPD in heritage construction
• Work on some of the UK’s most unique and historic building projects
• Friendly, experienced team culture focused on collaboration and quality

How to Apply

If you're a Stone Mason looking to transition off the tools or an Assistant Estimator eager to build your future in heritage restoration and work on projects that truly matter, apply today, and we’ll be in touch within 48 hours to discuss your application in confidence.